Call for open talks with B’ville, Govt over service

Former Prime Minister Peter O’Neill has urged the Government to engage in a transparent, open and mature dialogue with Bougainville President-elect Ishmael Toroama on providing services to the people.
“All our leaders must enhance the delivery of education in Bougainville, and for Bougainvillean students studying around the country,” O’Neill, the leader of the People’s National Congress Party said in a statement.
Toroama was elected as President on Wednesday to replace Dr John Momis.
The writs were to have been returned to Speaker Simon Potanu yesterday.
Toroama will be sworn in today.
“We must continue to improve access to healthcare in Bougainville, with more doctors and medical staff from around the country, and improved healthcare facilities and equipment,” he said.
“We must also keep building better roads, airstrips and jetties so that Bougainvillean agriculture and marine produce can be sold around the country and overseas.
“Importantly, we must take very clear notice of the outcome of the referendum and seek pathways to which we can all agree.
“Now is not the time for indecision.
“And it is certainly not the time for empty promises or false hope.
“Now is the time for a clear meeting of minds and honest outcomes for our collective hearts,” he said.
He said the Government was very clear when transferring ownership of the BCL shares directly to landowners and other stakeholders that any decision on the future of the mine “is absolutely and totally in the hands of the people of Bougainville”.